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CPT®
85002

CPT® Code 85002

Official Description

Bleeding time

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 85002 refers to a laboratory test known as the bleeding time test, which is utilized to assess the duration it takes for bleeding to cease following a standardized incision. This test is crucial for evaluating the functionality of platelets, which are essential components of blood that help in clot formation, as well as the integrity of blood vessel walls. Prior to conducting the bleeding time test, a platelet count may be ordered to ensure that the platelet levels are within a normal range, as this can influence the results of the bleeding time assessment. During the procedure, a blood pressure cuff is applied to the upper arm and inflated to a pressure between 20 to 40 mmHg, which helps to engorge the blood vessels in the lower arm. Subsequently, two small incisions are made on the lower arm using either a lancet or an automatic incision-making device. The time taken for the bleeding to stop is meticulously recorded. The blood pressure cuff is then deflated, and blotting paper is used to absorb blood from the cuts every 30 seconds until bleeding has completely ceased. The total time from the initial incision to the cessation of bleeding is noted, providing valuable information regarding the patient's hemostatic function. Overall, the bleeding time test serves as an important diagnostic tool in the evaluation of bleeding disorders and platelet function abnormalities.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The bleeding time test (CPT® Code 85002) is indicated for the evaluation of various conditions related to hemostasis and platelet function. The following are specific indications for performing this test:

  • Assessment of Bleeding Disorders This test is often utilized to investigate unexplained bleeding episodes or to assess patients with a history of easy bruising or prolonged bleeding after minor injuries.
  • Preoperative Evaluation The bleeding time test may be performed as part of a preoperative assessment to ensure that a patient has adequate hemostatic function before undergoing surgical procedures.
  • Monitoring of Platelet Function It can be used to monitor patients who are on antiplatelet therapy or those with known platelet function disorders to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the bleeding time test involves several key steps that are performed in a controlled manner to ensure accurate results. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Preparation The patient is positioned comfortably, and a blood pressure cuff is applied to the upper arm. The cuff is inflated to a pressure of 20-40 mmHg to engorge the blood vessels in the lower arm, facilitating the procedure.
  • Step 2: Incision Once the blood pressure cuff is in place, two small incisions are made on the lower arm using a lancet or an automatic incision-making device. These incisions are typically shallow to minimize tissue damage while allowing for blood flow.
  • Step 3: Timing and Blotting The time from the moment the incisions are made is noted. After the initial timing, the blood pressure cuff is deflated. Blotting paper is then gently touched to the cuts every 30 seconds to absorb any blood that is present. This process continues until the bleeding has completely stopped.
  • Step 4: Final Timing Once bleeding ceases, the total time from the initial incision to the point of complete cessation of bleeding is recorded. This time is critical for interpreting the results of the test.

3. Post-Procedure

After the bleeding time test is completed, the patient may be monitored briefly to ensure there are no complications, such as excessive bleeding or infection at the incision sites. The small cuts typically heal without the need for sutures, and patients are advised to keep the area clean and dry. Any significant findings from the test should be discussed with the patient, and further diagnostic testing may be recommended based on the results. It is important for healthcare providers to document the findings accurately and to follow up with the patient regarding any necessary treatment or additional evaluations.
Short Descr BLEEDING TIME TEST
Medium Descr BLEEDING TIME TEST
Long Descr Bleeding time
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Medium Descriptor changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
Code
Description
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